SECF was established in 1970 by the leaders of North Carolina and Georgia foundations in response to the Tax Reform Act of 1969 to represent foundation interests with federal officials at a time when private philanthropy was under intense scrutiny by Congress. SECF has grown to become the nation’s second largest regional association of grantmakers (as measured by the number of its members – community, corporate, family, health legacy, and independent foundations and giving programs of all sizes). During the past decade, SECF has greatly expanded its range of programs and services for members.

The Southeastern Council of Foundations is one of the largest and oldest regional associations of grantmakers in the country. In our over four decades of existence we have experienced a number of breakthroughs and milestones.

Previous SECF Board Chairs:

Throughout its history, SECF has been led by philanthropic leaders from throughout the Southeast. Under current bylaws, the Chair of the Board of Trustees is elected to a one-year term that begins with each Annual Meeting. Click here to view a full list of SECF Board Chairs.

SECF's History Timeline: Below are some of the key dates in SECF's history.

2012

Karen McNeil-Miller elected SECF’s first African American board chair.

SECF partners with the Council on Foundations to launch "Foundations 101” meetings which engage more than 125 congressional and foundation staff around the region.